July 20, 2025Phu Quoc Prison, also known as Coconut Tree Prison (Nha Tu Phu Quoc) or the Phu Quoc Detention Center, is one of Vietnam’s significant historical sites, marking the painful yet heroic pages of the nation’s history. This place once held tens of thousands of prisoners during the wars against the French and Americans. Join Cassia Cottage in exploring this remarkable site through the following article.
About Phu Quoc Prison
Known as the “Dia nguc tran giang” – “Hell on Earth,” Phu Quoc Prison was the largest prisoner camp in southern Vietnam during the war. It vividly depicts the harsh conditions and brutal torture methods that prisoners had to endure. This historical relic is not only a symbol of the nation’s patriotic spirit and sacrifice for independence but also a reminder of the atrocities of war.
Where Is Phu Quoc Prison? Ticket & Opening Hours
Located in An Thoi commune, Phu Quoc district, Kien Giang province, the Phu Quoc jail is about 28 km south of Duong Dong town. The site is open daily from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Entry is free, allowing visitors to explore and learn about the history of this important landmark.
How to Get to Phu Quoc Prison
Visitors can rent a motorbike or take a taxi from Duong Dong town to reach Phu Quoc Prison. By motorbike, follow the Duong Dong – An Thoi road, and in about 30 minutes, you’ll arrive. The route is easy, with scenic views along the way. If you’re unfamiliar with the road, taxis or private car rentals are available, costing between 300,000 and 500,000 VND for a round trip.
Read more: Phu Quoc weather by month: Best time to visit
Phu Quoc Prison Before 1975: A Historical Overview
Coconut Prison Phu Quoc During the French Colonial Period
Built in 1946 under the name “Coconut Prison”, Phu Quoc Detention Center was mainly used to detain revolutionary soldiers and patriots captured by the French colonialists. The prison was heavily fortified with strict security measures. Prisoners suffered harsh living conditions and brutal torture.
Phu Quoc Prison Under American Control
During Resistance War against America (known as Vietnam War), the prison was expanded and renamed the Phu Quoc Communist Prisoner Camp. From 1967 to 1973, it housed more than 40,000 prisoners. Sophisticated and cruel torture methods were used to extract information and suppress the fighting spirit of the detainees. However, many prisoners, showing immense resilience, organized escapes and continued to fight for the country’s liberation.
What to do at Phu Quoc Prison?
When visiting Phu Quoc Prison, you’ll discover various key areas, each with its own unique historical story, vividly portraying the hardships and unyielding spirit of the revolutionary soldiers.
The Main Entrance – 8th Military Police Battalion Gate
The entrance gate to Phu Quoc War Prison, once strictly guarded by the military police, was fortified with barbed wire, high watchtowers, and bright lights throughout the night. It served as the main checkpoint for controlling all movements in and out of the camp, reflecting the oppressive and cruel control of the regime.
Prisoner Cemetery – A Grim Reminder of “Hell on Earth”
The cemetery within the prison grounds is the resting place of thousands of revolutionary soldiers who sacrificed their lives here. With nameless graves, this cemetery is a haunting reminder of the horrors of war and the crimes committed by the enemy. Visitors can pay their respects and reflect on the high price of independence.
Kien Van Church in Phu Quoc Prison
Despite the harsh conditions, prisoners held onto their faith and solidarity. The church, built from simple materials like wood and bamboo, became a place of hope and belief in a future of freedom. Visitors can feel the spiritual strength and resilience of the soldiers during their years of imprisonment.
Exhibitions of Artifacts
The exhibition area displays photos and personal items of prisoners, along with the tools of torture used by the captors. The stories and testimonials are presented vividly, helping visitors better understand the harsh lives and unyielding spirit of those imprisoned at Phu Quoc Prison.
Sector B2 in Phu Quoc Island Prison
Sector B2 was one of the most critical detention areas in Phu Quoc Prison, with narrow, dark cells surrounded by barbed wire and heavy security. Prisoners here endured severe torture, forced labor, and unimaginable living conditions.
The Martyrs’ Memorial at Sim Hill
Located on a hill covered with purple sim flowers, a symbol of loyalty and resilience, the memorial honors the martyrs who gave their lives for the country’s independence. The solemn space invites visitors to pay homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The Significance of Phu Quoc Prison
A visit to Coconut Tree Prison Phu Quoc allows visitors to gain deeper insights into the nation’s proud yet tragic history. Each section of the prison tells its own story, contributing to the overall picture of the revolutionary soldiers’ resilient struggle.
This site is not only a place for remembrance and gratitude but also an inspiration for younger generations to cherish the value of peace and freedom, appreciating the sacrifices made by their forebears.
Read more: Your Guide to Phu Quoc National Park
Visiting Tips for Phu Quoc Prison
- Dress respectfully: Visitors are encouraged to wear modest clothing to show respect for the sacred site.
- Maintain silence: As this is a memorial site, it’s important to avoid loud conversations and disturbances.
- Don’t touch exhibits: To preserve the artifacts and displays, visitors are advised not to touch or handle them.
- Follow the guided routes: Stick to the guided tour routes and avoid entering restricted areas.
- Keep the environment clean: Help maintain the cleanliness of the site by not littering.
Other Attractions Near Phu Quoc Prison
After visiting Phu Quoc War Prison, you can explore several nearby attractions:
- Kem Beach (2 km)
- Sunset Town (4 km)
- Light Park (5 km)
- Sao Beach (6 km)
- Ho Quoc Pagoda/Truc Lam Ho Quoc Zen Monastery (10 km)
Stay at Cassia Cottage – A Perfect Retreat for Your Phu Quoc Trip
For a complete and fulfilling trip to Phu Quoc, Cassia Cottage is the ideal place to stay. Located on a private beach with lush greenery, the resort offers peace and tranquility. Cassia Cottage blends traditional architecture with modern conveniences, offering premium services such as a swimming pool, spa, and diverse dining options. From here, you can easily explore Coconut Tree Prison Phu Quoc and other Phu Quoc’s top attractions, ensuring a memorable and relaxing vacation.
A visit to Phu Quoc Prison not only deepens visitors’ understanding of Vietnam’s history and Phu Quoc history but also provides a chance to honor those who sacrificed for the country. Combine this with exploring nearby attractions and a relaxing stay at Cassia Cottage, and your trip to Phu Quoc will be both meaningful and complete.
FAQs about Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison)
1. What is Phu Quoc Prison famous for?
Phu Quoc Prison, also known as Coconut Tree Prison (Nha Tu Phu Quoc), is one of the most haunting historical sites in Vietnam. Built during the French colonial era and expanded during the Vietnam War, it once held over 40,000 prisoners. Today, it stands as a solemn reminder of the nation’s painful yet heroic history.
2. Why is it called Coconut Tree Prison?
The prison is nicknamed Coconut Tree Prison because it’s located near the island’s coconut groves in southern Phu Quoc. Locals still use this name to refer to the Phu Quoc Detention Center, symbolizing both the island’s tropical landscape and the dark history hidden within it.
3. Where is Phu Quoc Prison located?
The Phu Quoc Jail is located in An Thoi commune, about 28 km south of Duong Dong town. It’s easy to reach by motorbike, taxi, or private car, taking roughly 30 minutes along the scenic coastal road. The prison is open daily from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM — and admission is free.
4. What can visitors see inside Phu Quoc War Prison?
Visitors can explore reconstructed prison cells, barbed-wire fences, and life-sized models depicting wartime torture scenes. The Phu Quoc War Prison also includes a small museum with photos, personal items, and historical documents that bring the island’s wartime stories to life.
5. How long should I spend at Coconut Tree Prison?
Most visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits and memorial areas. It’s recommended to visit in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler. Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Sao Beach, Sunset Town, or Ho Quoc Pagoda for a full southern Phu Quoc itinerary.
6. Is Phu Quoc Prison suitable for families or children?
While the site is open to all visitors, some exhibits inside Nha Tu Phu Quoc may be intense for young children due to the realistic wartime displays. Families should use discretion, focusing on educational parts that highlight resilience and peace.
